Decentralized Audits

Definition ∞ Decentralized audits involve the examination of smart contracts or blockchain protocols by a distributed network of independent participants rather than a single central entity. This method utilizes collective review and consensus mechanisms to verify code integrity, security, and functional correctness. It aims to reduce single points of failure and enhance transparency in the validation process. The distributed nature of these reviews helps confirm adherence to stated specifications and identify potential vulnerabilities.
Context ∞ The topic of decentralized audits gains prominence in crypto news when discussing protocol security enhancements, particularly after high-profile exploits. Its application is a key factor in assessing the trustworthiness of new DeFi applications and other digital asset platforms. The ongoing development of frameworks for these audits represents a significant area of progress for improving ecosystem security and user confidence.